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Blank California Ad 9 PDF Form

The California AD 9 form is an Independent Adoption Questionnaire required by the California Department of Social Services. This form gathers essential information about the prospective adoptive parents and the child being adopted. Completing the AD 9 accurately is crucial for ensuring a smooth adoption process, so make sure to fill it out by clicking the button below.

Article Guide

The California AD 9 form, officially known as the Independent Adoption Questionnaire, plays a crucial role in the adoption process within the state. This form is designed for prospective adoptive parents and requires detailed information about both petitioners, including their personal backgrounds, employment details, and family histories. It collects essential data such as names, birth dates, ethnicities, and educational backgrounds, alongside inquiries into criminal histories and any past allegations of child neglect or domestic violence. Additionally, the form asks about previous marriages or domestic partnerships and any children born prior to the current relationship. This comprehensive questionnaire aims to ensure that the adopting parents are thoroughly vetted, promoting the safety and well-being of the child being adopted. Timeliness is also emphasized, as applicants are instructed to complete and return the form within one week, highlighting the importance of efficiency in the adoption process. By gathering this information, the California Department of Social Services seeks to create a safe and nurturing environment for children awaiting adoption.

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STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

STATE CASE NUMBER:

INDEPENDENT ADOPTION QUESTIONNAIRE

INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF:

FIRST PETITIONER’S NAME:

SECOND PETITIONER’S NAME:

CHILD’S NAME:

CHILD’S ADOPTED NAME:

Dear Petitioner(s):

Complete this Independent Adoption Questionnaire (AD 9) and Adoption Questionnaire I (AD 4324) (to be filled out individually) and return them within one week.

Thank You.

__________________________________________________________________________

(NAME OF CDSS DISTRICT OFFICE OR DELEGATED COUNTY ADOPTION AGENCY)

(Please fill out as completely as possible, writing “NA” or “Unknown” where appropriate)

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 1 OF 12

I. FIRST PETITIONER’S INFORMATION

LAST NAME

FIRST NAME

MIDDLE NAME

GENDER

BIRTHDATE

PLACE OF BIRTH

ETHNICITY

RACE

RELIGION

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

DRIVER LICENSE NUMBER

EDUCATION

OCCUPATION

MONTHLY SALARY

(HIGHEST GRADE

COMPLETED)

NAME AND ADDRESS OF EMPLOYER

LENGTH OF EMPLOYMENT

WORK HOURS

WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER

(

)

ARE YOU A UNITED STATES CITIZEN?

DATE OF ARRIVAL IN U.S.

DATE OF ARRIVAL IN

■ YES ■ NO

CALIFORNIA

IF NATURALIZED

ARE YOU A PERMANENT RESIDENT?

ALIEN REGISTRATION NUMBER

DATE:

PLACE:

■ YES ■ NO

A-

NUMBER:

MILITARY SERVICE:

DATE OF SERVICE:

DATE OF DISCHARGE:

■ YES ■ NO

■ HONORABLE

■ DISHONORABLE

CRIMINAL HISTORY

Have you ever been arrested for an offense other than a traffic infraction?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you currently on probation or parole?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstance:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever been investigated for allegations of child neglect or abuse?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

B.FORMER MARRIAGE(S)/REGISTERED DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP(S) (RDP)

FULL NAME OF FORMER SPOUSE(S)/RDP(S)

(Give maiden name and current address)

WHERE

(License/Registration Issued in County/State)

MARRIAGE/RDP

(Date & Place)

DIVORCE/RDP TERMINATION

(Date & Place)

DEATH

(Date & Place)

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 2 OF 12

C.CHILD(REN) BORN PRIOR TO CURRENT MARRIAGE/REGISTERED DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP

FULL NAME OF CHILD

DATE OF

BIRTH

EDUCATION

(Name & Address of School & Grade)

HEALTH CONDITIONS

IF ADOPTED

(Place, Date, Agency)

1)	Have any of your children ever been arrested for an offense other than a traffic infraction?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
2)	Are any of your children currently on probation or parole?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstance:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
3)	Have any of your adult children ever been investigated for allegations of child neglect or abuse?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstances:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
4)	Have any of your adult children ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence?	■ YES	■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

	D.	FAMILY HISTORY

		EDUCATION		HEALTH	DATE OF
RELATIVES’ NAMES	ADDRESS	(Highest Grade OCCUPATION	AGE	HEALTH	DEATH
RELATIVES’ NAMES	ADDRESS	(Highest Grade OCCUPATION	AGE	CONDITIONS	DEATH
		Completed)		CONDITIONS	(If Deceased)
		Completed)			(If Deceased)

FATHER

MOTHER

SIBLING

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 3 OF 12

II. SECOND PETITIONER’S INFORMATION

LAST NAME

FIRST NAME

MIDDLE NAME

GENDER

BIRTHDATE

PLACE OF BIRTH

ETHNICITY

RACE

RELIGION

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

DRIVER LICENSE NUMBER

EDUCATION

OCCUPATION

MONTHLY SALARY

(HIGHEST GRADE

COMPLETED)

NAME AND ADDRESS OF EMPLOYER

LENGTH OF EMPLOYMENT

WORK HOURS

WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER

(

)

ARE YOU A UNITED STATES CITIZEN?

DATE OF ARRIVAL IN U.S.

DATE OF ARRIVAL IN

■ YES ■ NO

CALIFORNIA

IF NATURALIZED

ARE YOU A PERMANENT RESIDENT?

ALIEN REGISTRATION NUMBER

DATE:

PLACE:

■ YES ■ NO

A-

NUMBER:

MILITARY SERVICE:

DATE OF SERVICE:

DATE OF DISCHARGE:

■ YES ■ NO

■ HONORABLE

■ DISHONORABLE

CRIMINAL HISTORY

Have you ever been arrested for an offense other than a traffic infraction?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you currently on probation or parole?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstance:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever been investigated for allegations of child neglect or abuse?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence?

■ YES

■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

B.FORMER MARRIAGE(S)/REGISTERED DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP(S) (RDP)

FULL NAME OF FORMER SPOUSE/REGISTERED

DOMESTIC PARTNER

(Give maiden name and current address)

WHERE

(License/Registration Issued in

County/State)

MARRIAGE/RDP

(Date & Place)

DIVORCE/RDP TERMINATION

(Date & Place)

DEATH

(Date & Place)

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 4 OF 12

C. CHILD(REN) BORN PRIOR TO CURRENT MARRIAGE/REGISTERED DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP

FULL NAME OF CHILD

DATE OF

BIRTH

EDUCATION

(Name & Address of School & Grade)

HEALTH CONDITIONS

IF ADOPTED

(Place, Date, Agency)

1)	Have any of your children ever been arrested for an offense other than a traffic infraction?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
2)	Are any of your children currently on probation or parole?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstance:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
3)	Have any of your adult children ever been investigated for allegations of child neglect or abuse?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstances:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
4)	Have any of your adult children ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence?	■ YES	■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

	D.	FAMILY HISTORY

		EDUCATION		HEALTH	DATE OF
RELATIVES’ NAMES	ADDRESS	(Highest Grade OCCUPATION	AGE	HEALTH	DEATH
RELATIVES’ NAMES	ADDRESS	(Highest Grade OCCUPATION	AGE	CONDITIONS	DEATH
		Completed)		CONDITIONS	(If Deceased)
		Completed)			(If Deceased)

FATHER

MOTHER

SIBLING

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 5 OF 12

III. HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION

MAILING ADDRESS		CITY, STATE, ZIP			HOW LONG AT PRESENT ADDRESS

I. CELLULAR PHONE NUMBER		II. CELLULAR PHONE NUMBER			HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER
(	)	(	)		(	)

If you are a married or registered domestic couple:			If you are an unmarried couple:
DATE OF MARRIAGE/REGISTRATION:			LENGTH OF DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP/RELATIONSHIP:

PLACE OF MARRIAGE/REGISTRATION:			HAVE YOU FILED A REGISTRATION OF DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE?
			■ YES ■ NO
(CITY, COUNTY AND STATE)				IF YES, DATE OF FILING:_______________________________________________

DESCRIBE YOUR HOME (INCLUDE NUMBER OF BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS):

DIRECTIONS TO YOUR HOME:

HAVE YOU EVER HAD ANY PREVIOUS ADOPTIVE PLACEMENT(S)?	■ YES	■ NO IF YES, PLEASE DESCRIBE:

HAVE YOU EVER APPLIED WITH ANOTHER AGENCY?	■ YES	■ NO
IF YES, WHEN AND NAME OF AGENCY:

A.CHILD(REN) OF PETITIONER(S)

FULL NAME OF CHILD

DATE OF

BIRTH

EDUCATION

(Name & Address of School & Grade)

HEALTH CONDITIONS

IF ADOPTED

(Place, Date, Agency)

1)	Have any of your children ever been arrested for an offense other than a traffic infraction?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
2)	Are any of your children currently on probation or parole?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstance:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
3)	Have any of your adult children ever been investigated for allegations of child neglect or abuse?	■ YES	■ NO
	If YES, please explain the circumstances:
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
	______________________________________________________________________________________________________
4)	Have any of your adult children ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence?	■ YES	■ NO

If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

AD 9 (10/03)

PAGE 6 OF 12

B.OTHER MEMBERS OF THE HOUSEHOLD

FULL NAME

GENDER DATE OF BIRTH RELATIONSHIP TO FAMILY

OCCUPATION

1)Have any of these members of the household ever been arrested for an offense other than a

traffic infraction?	■ YES ■ NO
If YES, please explain the charges and any convictions:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

2) Are any of these members of the household currently on probation or parole?	■ YES ■ NO
If YES, please explain the circumstance:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

3)Have any of these members of the household ever been investigated for allegations of child

neglect or abuse?	■ YES ■ NO
If YES, please explain the circumstances:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

4) Have any of these members of the household ever been reported for allegations of domestic violence? ■ YES ■ NO If YES, please explain the circumstances and outcome:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

IV. BIRTHPARENT/LEGAL PARENT INFORMATION

	BIRTHMOTHER/LEGAL PARENT				BIRTHFATHER/LEGAL PARENT
NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)			NAME (LAST, FIRST, MIDDLE)

MAIDEN NAME OR ALIASES			ALIASES

ETHNICITY, RACE		BIRTHDATE	ETHNICITY, RACE			BIRTHDATE

ADDRESS			ADDRESS

TELEPHONE NUMBER			TELEPHONE NUMBER
(	)		(	)

A.PLACEMENT DETAILS

DESCRIBE FULLY HOW YOU FIRST LEARNED OF THE CHILD, IF AND WHEN YOU MET THE BIRTHPARENTS/LEGAL PARENT, AND HOW YOU SECURED THIS CHILD FOR ADOPTION. INCLUDE SPECIFIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE TRANSFER OF CUSTODY AND THE NAME OF ANY INTERMEDIARY INVOLVED.

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 7 OF 12

B.EXPENSES RELATED TO ADOPTION

HOSPITAL

ADOPTION SERVICE

PROVIDER

PHYSICIAN

ATTORNEY

BIRTHPARENT/ LEGAL PARENT

OTHER

C.CONCERNING CHILD(REN) TO BE ADOPTED

CHILD #1

CHILD #2

NAME OF CHILD

BIRTHDATE

PLACE OF BIRTH

GENDER

DATE PLACED IN HOME

BIRTHDATE

PLACE OF BIRTH

GENDER

DATE PLACED IN HOME

NAME OF HOSPITAL

ADDRESS OF HOSPITAL

ATTENDING PHYSICIAN

HEIGHT

WEIGHT

EYE COLOR

HAIR COLOR

HEIGHT

WEIGHT

EYE COLOR

HAIR COLOR

HAS THE CHILD EVER BEEN KNOWN BY ANOTHER NAME?

■ YES

■ NO

■ YES

■ NO

CURRENT AGE

CURRENT WEIGHT

CURRENT AGE

CURRENT WEIGHT

DO YOU BELIEVE THE CHILD WAS EXPOSED TO ALCOHOL OR DRUGS IN UTERO?

■ YES

■ NO

■ YES

■ NO

DO YOU BELIEVE OR SUSPECT THE CHILD WAS SUBJECTED TO

PHYSICAL, SEXUAL OR EMOTIONAL ABUSE OR NEGLECT PRIOR

■ YES ■ NO

PHYSICAL, SEXUAL OR EMOTIONAL ABUSE OR NEGLECT PRIOR

■ YES ■ NO

TO PLACEMENT IN YOUR HOME?

IF YES, PLEASE PROVIDE DETAILS:

BRIEFLY DESCRIBE THE ADJUSTMENT OF YOUR CHILD(REN) TO YOUR HOME:

DESCRIBE CURRENT AND FUTURE PLANNED CHILD CARE ARRANGEMENTS:

DESCRIBE, IF ANY, RELIGIOUS TRAINING PLANS OF THE CHILD(REN):

D.SCHOOL INFORMATION (COMPLETE THIS SECTION IF CHILD(REN) ATTENDS SCHOOL)

NAME OF SCHOOL			NAME OF SCHOOL

SCHOOL ADDRESS			SCHOOL ADDRESS

SCHOOL PHONE		GRADE LEVEL	SCHOOL PHONE		GRADE LEVEL
(	)		(	)

REGISTERED NAME		TEACHER’S NAME	REGISTERED NAME		TEACHER’S NAME

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 8 OF 12

V.FINANCIAL INFORMATION

MONTHLY INCOME
GROSS WAGES
First Petitioner	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ __________________
Second Petitioner	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ __________________
NET WAGES
First Petitioner	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	$ ______________________
Second Petitioner	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	$ ______________________
OTHER INCOME (interest, property, dividends, etc.)		. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
			TOTAL GROSS INCOME	$ ___________________
MONTHLY EXPENSES
Housing (include taxes, insurance, & utilities)		. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
Insurance	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
Food/Clothing	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
Legal Obligations (child support, alimony, etc.)		. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
Extraordinary Expenses	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	. .	. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	$ ___________________
	MONTHLY CONSUMER DEBT PAYMENTS

ITEM	TERMINATION DATE		BALANCE DUE	MONTHLY PAYMENT

		$		$

		$		$

		$		$

		$		$

	TOTAL	$		$

If you own your home, please indicate the following:

Purchase Price	$ ___________________	Balance Due	$ _____________________
FINANCIAL ASSETS
Savings	$ ___________________	Investments	$ _____________________
Stocks, Bonds	$ ___________________	Real Property	$ _____________________
Other Resources	$ ___________________

If you are self-employed or an employer cannot verify your income for some other reason, please attach a copy of your last year’s federal income tax return.

I/We filed both state and federal income tax returns last year.

■ YES ■ NO If NO, state reason: __________________________________________________________________________

I/We have had the occasion to file for bankruptcy.

■ YES ■ NO

If YES, state reason: _________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE USE THIS SPACE TO NOTE ANY ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION THAT YOU BELIEVE THE DEPARTMENT SHOULD BE AWARE OF:

AD 9 (11/07)

PAGE 9 OF 12

VI. INSURANCE

Does your family have health and hospitalization insurance that covers all family members? ■ YES ■ NO

If YES, indicate the name of insurance carrier and address:____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name and address of family physician:____________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Name and address of pediatrician: _______________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What provisions for medical care will be provided for the child(ren)?_____________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Check the types of insurance coverage your family has and briefly describe each coverage.

■Life Insurance: __________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

■Disability Insurance: ______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

■Automobile Insurance: ____________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

■Renters/Home Owners Insurance: ___________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

■Other Policies: __________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOTE: California law (Section 1373(c) of the Health and Safety Code, and Sections 10119, 10112, and 11512.1 of the Insurance Code) requires that effective January 1, 1988, all health care service plans provide accident and sickness coverage to each minor child placed for adoption from and after the moment the child is placed in the physical custody of the covered subscriber or enrollee of adoption.

AD 9 (11/07)	PAGE 10 OF 12

➤ PDF File

Form Specifications

Fact Name	Details
Form Purpose	The California AD 9 form is an Independent Adoption Questionnaire used to gather essential information from prospective adoptive parents.
Governing Laws	This form is governed by the California Family Code, specifically sections related to adoption procedures and requirements.
Submission Timeline	Petitioners must complete and return the AD 9 form along with the Adoption Questionnaire I (AD 4324) within one week of receipt.
Information Required	The form requests detailed personal information, including criminal history, family background, and employment details of the petitioners.
Confidentiality	Information provided in the AD 9 form is treated with confidentiality and is used solely for the adoption assessment process.

California Ad 9: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the California AD 9 form requires careful attention to detail. The form collects essential information about the petitioners and their family background as part of the adoption process. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately to facilitate the review process.

Obtain the California AD 9 form from the California Department of Social Services or a relevant adoption agency.
At the top of the form, enter the State Case Number associated with your adoption case.
Fill in the names of the petitioners and the child involved in the adoption:

First Petitioner's Name
Second Petitioner's Name
Child’s Name
Child’s Adopted Name

Provide the first petitioner's information, including:

Last Name, First Name, Middle Name
Gender, Birthdate, Place of Birth
Ethnicity, Race, Religion
Social Security Number, Driver License Number
Education, Occupation, Monthly Salary
Name and Address of Employer, Length of Employment, Work Hours, Work Telephone Number
Citizenship status and relevant dates
Military service details, if applicable

Answer questions regarding criminal history, including arrests and investigations related to child neglect or domestic violence. Provide explanations where necessary.
If applicable, fill out details regarding former marriages or registered domestic partnerships, including names, dates, and circumstances.
Provide information about children born prior to the current marriage or partnership, including their names, dates of birth, education, and health conditions.
Repeat the same process for the second petitioner, ensuring all sections are completed as done for the first petitioner.
Complete the family history section, listing relatives' names, addresses, occupations, and any relevant health conditions.
Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before submission.
Submit the completed form to the designated CDSS district office or delegated county adoption agency within one week.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the California AD 9 form?

The California AD 9 form, also known as the Independent Adoption Questionnaire, is a document required by the California Department of Social Services for individuals looking to adopt a child independently. It collects essential information about the petitioners, including personal details, criminal history, family background, and information about any previous marriages or domestic partnerships. Completing this form is a crucial step in the adoption process, as it helps ensure the safety and well-being of the child being adopted.

Who needs to fill out the AD 9 form?

Both petitioners intending to adopt must complete the AD 9 form. This includes the first and second petitioners, regardless of their marital status. Each petitioner must provide their personal information, background details, and any relevant history that may impact the adoption process. It's important for both individuals to be transparent and thorough in their responses to facilitate a smooth adoption experience.

What information is required on the AD 9 form?

The AD 9 form requires a variety of information. This includes the petitioners' names, birthdates, social security numbers, education levels, and employment details. Additionally, the form asks about criminal history, including arrests and investigations related to child neglect or abuse. Information about previous marriages or domestic partnerships, as well as details about any children from those relationships, is also necessary. Providing complete and accurate information is vital for the adoption process.

How long do I have to submit the AD 9 form?

Once you receive the AD 9 form, you are typically required to return it within one week. This timeline is important to keep the adoption process moving forward. If you anticipate needing more time to gather the necessary information, it's advisable to communicate with the relevant adoption agency or district office as soon as possible to discuss your situation.

What happens if I have a criminal history?

If you have a criminal history, it is essential to disclose this information on the AD 9 form. The form specifically asks about arrests, convictions, and any investigations related to child neglect or abuse. While having a criminal history does not automatically disqualify you from adopting, it will be reviewed as part of the overall assessment process. Being honest about your past can help the adoption agency make informed decisions regarding your suitability as an adoptive parent.

Can I fill out the AD 9 form online?

Currently, the AD 9 form is typically a paper form that must be filled out and submitted in person or via mail. However, some adoption agencies may provide resources or guidance for completing the form electronically. It’s best to check with the specific agency handling your adoption for their preferred submission methods and any available online options.

What should I do if I don’t have all the information requested?

If you do not have all the information requested on the AD 9 form, you should fill in as much as you can and indicate "NA" (not applicable) or "Unknown" where appropriate. It's better to provide partial information than to leave sections completely blank. If you have questions about specific sections or need assistance, consider reaching out to the adoption agency for guidance.

Where can I find more information about the adoption process in California?

For more information about the adoption process in California, you can visit the California Department of Social Services website. They provide comprehensive resources, including guidelines, forms, and contact information for local adoption agencies. Additionally, many community organizations offer support and information for prospective adoptive parents, which can be invaluable as you navigate this journey.

Common mistakes

Incomplete Information: Many people forget to fill out all sections of the form. It’s essential to provide complete details for each question. If a question doesn’t apply, write “NA” or “Unknown” instead of leaving it blank.
Missing Signatures: Failing to sign the form can delay the process. Ensure that both petitioners sign the form where indicated before submission.
Incorrect Dates: Providing wrong dates, especially for important events like marriage or divorce, can lead to complications. Double-check all dates for accuracy.
Omitting Background Information: Some individuals may hesitate to disclose past arrests or investigations. However, being transparent is crucial. If there are any relevant incidents, they should be explained in detail.
Ignoring the Deadline: Submitting the form after the one-week deadline can cause delays in the adoption process. Set reminders to ensure timely submission.
Not Keeping a Copy: Failing to make a copy of the completed form for personal records can be a mistake. It’s wise to keep a copy for reference in case any questions arise later.

Documents used along the form

The California Ad 9 form serves as an essential document in the independent adoption process, gathering detailed information about the prospective adoptive parents. Alongside this form, several other documents are typically required to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the adopting individuals and their suitability for adoption. Below is a brief overview of four additional forms often used in conjunction with the California Ad 9.

Adoption Questionnaire I (AD 4324): This form is filled out by each petitioner individually. It collects personal information similar to the Ad 9, including details about education, employment, and family background. The purpose of this questionnaire is to provide a deeper understanding of the petitioners' circumstances and readiness to adopt.
Criminal Background Check Authorization: This document allows the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough background check on the prospective adoptive parents. It is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the child, as it helps identify any potential risks associated with the petitioners' past behavior.
Home Study Report: Conducted by a licensed social worker or adoption agency, this report evaluates the home environment of the prospective adoptive parents. It assesses their living conditions, parenting skills, and overall readiness to adopt. The home study is a critical step in the adoption process, providing insights into the family's dynamics and support systems.
Financial Disclosure Statement: This document requires the petitioners to disclose their financial situation, including income, assets, and liabilities. The purpose of this statement is to ensure that the adopting parents can provide for the child's needs, both now and in the future.

In summary, the adoption process in California involves multiple forms and documents that work together to create a comprehensive picture of the prospective adoptive parents. Each document serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the overall assessment of the family's readiness and ability to provide a nurturing environment for the child.

Similar forms

Adoption Questionnaire I (AD 4324): This document is also part of the adoption process in California. Similar to the AD 9, it collects detailed personal information about the petitioners, including their backgrounds and circumstances. Both forms are designed to ensure that the adoption agency has a comprehensive understanding of the petitioners' lives.
California Adoption Agreement: This legal document formalizes the adoption process. Like the AD 9, it outlines the responsibilities and rights of the adoptive parents. It serves to ensure that all parties are aware of the legal implications of the adoption, similar to how the AD 9 gathers pertinent information for evaluation.
Home Study Report: Conducted by a licensed social worker, this report assesses the home environment of the prospective adoptive parents. It shares similarities with the AD 9 in that both documents aim to evaluate the suitability of the petitioners for adoption, focusing on their backgrounds and current living situations.
Child’s Medical History Form: This form provides essential health information about the child being adopted. Like the AD 9, it is crucial for making informed decisions regarding the child's welfare and future care, ensuring that the adoptive parents are aware of any medical needs.
Consent to Adopt Form: This document is signed by the biological parents or guardians, giving permission for the adoption to proceed. It parallels the AD 9 in its importance within the adoption process, as both forms are necessary for legal compliance and the protection of all parties involved.
Post-Adoption Agreement: This document outlines the terms of contact between the adoptive family and the biological family after the adoption is finalized. Like the AD 9, it aims to provide clarity and understanding regarding the relationships and expectations that will exist following the adoption.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California AD 9 form, it’s important to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
Do provide accurate information for all sections.
Do write “NA” or “Unknown” where applicable.
Do return the completed form within one week.
Don't leave any required fields blank.
Don't provide false or misleading information.
Don't forget to sign and date the form.
Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the California AD 9 form, many people hold misconceptions that can lead to confusion or mistakes in the adoption process. Here are four common misunderstandings:

It's Only for Couples: Many believe that the AD 9 form is exclusively for couples looking to adopt. In reality, both single individuals and couples can use this form to initiate the independent adoption process. Whether you are a single parent or part of a couple, you are eligible to fill out the AD 9.
Information is Optional: Some think that they can skip questions they find uncomfortable or irrelevant. However, the form requires complete and accurate information. Providing thorough details helps the adoption agency assess your suitability as an adoptive parent.
Criminal History is a Dealbreaker: There’s a misconception that any criminal history automatically disqualifies a potential adoptive parent. While a history of certain offenses may raise concerns, each case is evaluated individually. Transparency about your past is crucial and can lead to a more informed decision by the agency.
It’s a Quick Process: Many assume that completing the AD 9 form is a quick step in the adoption process. In truth, while filling out the form may seem straightforward, the entire adoption process can take time. The AD 9 is just one part of a more extensive procedure that involves home studies, background checks, and more.

Understanding these misconceptions can help streamline the adoption journey and ensure that all necessary steps are taken with clarity and confidence.

Key takeaways

The California AD 9 form is an essential document for those pursuing independent adoption. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling it out:

Complete Information: Fill out the form as completely as possible. If something does not apply, write “NA” or “Unknown.”
Timely Submission: Return the completed AD 9 form within one week to ensure the adoption process stays on track.
Petitioner Details: Provide detailed information for both petitioners, including names, birthdates, and contact information.
Criminal History: Disclose any arrests or investigations related to child neglect, abuse, or domestic violence. Transparency is crucial.
Family Background: Include information about former marriages or domestic partnerships, along with any children from those relationships.
Children’s Information: If applicable, provide details about children born before the current marriage or partnership, including their education and health conditions.
Employer Information: List your current employer, job title, salary, and work hours. This helps assess your stability.
Citizenship Status: Indicate whether you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, and provide relevant dates of arrival.
Military Service: If applicable, include details about military service, including dates and discharge status.

Understanding these key points can simplify the process and help ensure that your application is complete and accurate. Good luck with your adoption journey!